Occupation and cervical cancer: an opportunity for prevention

Cervical cancer remains an important health problem for women. Few published studies have examined cervical cancer with respect to a woman's occupation. This study examines the association of cervical cancer mortality and occupation in a large national database. The purpose of the study is to recommend which occupations may most require health promotion activities. Mortality data from the National Occupational Mortality Surveillance System were used to calculate the proportion of deaths from cervical cancer according to occupation. This study is based on standardized death certificate data for almost 2 million deaths among women in 27 states, covering the period 1985-1990. Our results are consistent with those in previous studies, with service and apparel manufacturing workers showing elevated risk. Data presented show a difference in cervical cancer mortality by occupational group. Identification of these occupations suggests which women could be targeted for preventive services. Women in occupations with low socioeconomic status are less likely to have access to health promotion programs. Resources should be directed to these women.